Eugene, Oregon is at the south end of the Willamette Valley where two large rivers and many smaller ones meet, originally home to local Indigenous People. It is also a place of converging ideas. Eugene is full of artists, innovators and visionaries. This destination strives to be welcoming by designing accessibility into growth plans and taking leaps towards a more sustainable future.

The Huffington Post describes Eugene as "the city where everyone runs." From Hollywood's portrayal of Eugene's track stars to the running trails that crisscross the community, Eugene shines as the ultimate hub for runners, hikers and general outdoor enthusiasts.

Eugene has a lot of nicknames because it supports a community that is passionate in all their pursuits. Eugene is "TrackTown USA" for elite athletes around the world, the "Silicon Shire" for leaders in the tech industry, "A Great City for the Arts & Outdoors" for its local residents, "Home of the Ducks" for collegiate sports fans and "Emerald City" because of the lush green fern forests full of trails for exploring in any weather.

Explore Eugene’s Visitor Guide

Eugene has a wide variety of restaurants with cuisines from all around the world to choose from. You can also order food to be deliviered straight to you from many restaurants online.

What To Expect When Eating Out

• "Please wait to be seated" If you see this sign, please do not try to seat yourself regardless of how busy or empty the restaurant is.
• An entree in the US is referring to the main course, not a "starter meal/appetizer."
• The tap water in the US is safe and clean to drink. Oregon is known for having some of the freshest tap water. Tap water is also free in restuarants.
• Sometimes you will notice on your menu that select drinks have free refills while you are dining in the restaurant.
• It is very common for your server to approach you several times. They will also remove your dishes from the table as soon as you have finished everything on your plate. If you are still eating, be sure to let them know that you are not finished with the dish.
• Giving and splitting a bill: As soon as your plate is almost empty, the waiter may give you your bill, or they may ask if you would like dessert. Please do not feel rushed, you can still sit and chat at the table for as long as you'd like.
  • Most restaurants do not mind splitting the bill; just let the waiter know when they give you your bill. Many times the waiter will ask you if you are paying together or separately before they give you the bill.
  • Venmo: If you have a smart phone and are dining with your friends, you can use an app called Venmo. This app allows you to send money to your friends without fees.
• Gratuity/Tip: It is customary in the US to tip your waiter whenever you eat in a restaurant. Typically, you will be expected to tip for any restaurants where you are sitting down and served. It is also customary to tip about 10-15% at cafés. If you are eating at a fast food restaurant, you are usually not expected to tip.
  • The amount that you tip can depend on how "good" the service was. The general range to follow is between 15% (average service) -- 20% (great service) of your bill. For example, if you enjoy the service and your bill was $20, you would tip an additional $4.00 and pay a total of $24.00.
  • If you are paying by debit/credit card, you will see a spot under your total where you can input how much you would like to tip.
  • If you are paying in cash, you can leave the tip on the table. Another option is to include the tip in your payment and say something like, "Please keep the change."
  • For large groups of diners, some restaurants might automatically charge a gratuity fee. You DO NOT need add a tip on top of this.

21 LEGAL DRINKING AGE IN THE U.S.

Some restaurants may convert to bars after a certain time in the evening and restrict anyone under the age of 21 from entering. When you order a drink, you will often be asked to present your photo ID as proof that you are of legal drinking age. If you don't have a driver's license or state ID, your passport can be used for this. Please don't lose it.

It is illegal to buy alcohol for anyone under the age of 21. Additionally, you cannot carry an open bottle of alcohol in public places, and you can be arrested for this, even if you are 21 years of age or older. This is something that students have gotten in trouble for in the past.

Parks & Hikes

Eugene offers many beautiful hiking trails and parks. Hike up Skinner's Butte to our large UO sign, or enjoy biking around the river paths or on the Ridgeline Trail. Take a peaceful walk around some local parks or set up a hammock and relax.

Movie Theaters

A fun way students enjoy getting out and having fun with their friends is by going to the movie theaters! There are two locations in Eugene, and we recommend looking up tickets online to see showing time.

Museums

Take a study break and check out all of the fun activities Eugene has to offer during every season throughout the year. Enjoy mild winters, rainy springs, sunny summers, and crisp falls while exploring the great outdoors.

Seasonal Weather Annual Events

Once home to Phil Knight, the creator of Nike, the University of Oregon is home to some of the top athletes in the world. Here at the University of Oregon you will get to study alongside these athletes, and watch as they dominate other teams within the Pac-12. Our breathtaking facilities and stadiums are the ideal place to watch you favorite sports teams compete. We have sporting events happening all year long.

Students can purchase a Duck Sports Pass for $150 or individual tickets ranging from $0-$35 per game based on the sport.

Ducks Sports